The Iowa DNR has the challenging task of managing over 1,000 species of wildlife. It would be impossible for the wildlife diversity staff to spend the amount of time needed to monitor all these species. Volunteers are essential in keeping track of our state’s diverse collection of animals.

The DNR relies on volunteers to submit scientifically accurate data. This data is used to write reports on some of the state’s more vulnerable animals, like bald eagles, and track those species which may be experiencing a decrease, like frogs and toads. Many of our volunteers spend years collecting records of song birds or raptor nests. Other volunteers are just interested in reporting on wildlife near their homes.